Twenty-five years ago today, at Hamilton Hospital in New Jersey, Jared came into the world. Today, he has been on this earth for a quarter century. From first breath to walking to reading to driving to graduation and work in his chosen field, these twenty five years have been a changing adventure, inner and outer life-altering. We will mark this birthday with a cross country flight and dinner at the In-N-Out Burger just off the LAX runways because his older brother is getting married. The typical cake and dinner celebration will happen when everyone returns home.

I have loved every single stage of Jared’s life. I wouldn’t turn back the clock to live them over again, and I certainly wouldn’t wish to remain in any particular stage. There’s something wonderful in the miracle of maturation. And there’s something holy in being a part of it.

Jared, you’ve been a delight from the moment you came into the world. Happy 25th Birthday.